On-Site Septic Program
SCD offers financial assistance to landowners who need help to repair/replace their existing septic system, repair a failing side lateral connection, or abandon their septic system and connect to sewer. To get started, submit the official application, verification of income, and bids for your project from three contractors and return it to jeff@spokanecd.org.
Homeowner’s Education
Most of us are conscientious about the care and maintenance of our vehicles. Oil and filter changes plus other periodic inspections help protect the investment. Similarly, our onsite wastewater system represents a significant part of the investment in our property.
THIS SYSTEM MAY BE OUR MOST OVERLOOKED AND UNDERVALUED UTILITY!
A properly designed, installed and maintained onsite system can be expected to provide many years of service. However, lack of proper care and maintenance and/or abuse of the system can result in problems or premature failure. Repairs can be expensive…and replacement could cost as much as a new automobile.
BE AWARE: A malfunctioning (or inadequate) septic system can negatively affect your property’s value and could pose legal liability consequences. Become familiar with and follow recommendations in the Homeowner’s Manual…in particular, the “Do Not Flush” and “Do’s and Don’ts” Sections.
THE CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF YOUR SEPTIC SYSTEM IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY . . . IT’S ALSO THE LAW. At stake are your economic best interests, your family’s health as well as protection of our groundwater and the environment.
On-site Septic System
An On-Site Septic System (OSS), commonly known as a septic system, treats sewage on an individual’s property in the ground. Septic systems are installed on properties that cannot be served by publicly-owned wastewater collection and treatment systems which move sewage away from properties. Proper site evaluation, system selection and layout, installation, inspections and maintenance are essential in the on-site treatment of sewage.
OSS Requirements
In Spokane County, septic systems for residential, small businesses, and apartment buildings (systems less than 3,500 gallons per day) are regulated by the Spokane Regional Health District. Please visit their site for information on compliance with regulations, permits, and inspections. Larger systems are reviewed by the State Department of Health and the State Department of Ecology.